Many Managers possess the qualities to be truly great Leaders, but lack one necessary and crucial component; consistency. Too many Managers believe that Leadership is something to be saved for just the important times, when they can make an impression, when they can show everyone how important they are. They think that Leadership is something that you can pull out of your pocket, something that you can turn on and turn off, something to be used only when needed.

How do you conduct yourself on a daily basis? Do you come to work or meetings late? Expecting your team to be grateful that you have arrived? Are you pre-occupied, answering questions on your blackberry, checking messages, looking at your Facebook while your employees are trying to present you with information? Or, as you should, are you giving your employees your full attention? True Leadership shows in how you respond and handle your day to day duties and responsibilities.

The workplace is full of opportunities to demonstrate your Leadership skills but these opportunities are often disguised as mundane, commonplace activities. When you pass one of your employees in the hall or on the sales floor do you acknowledge them, say ‘hello’, smile, nod? Do you stop by someone’s’ desk and ask how they are doing? Do you take 5 minutes and help someone on the sales floor with a project, or even find out what they are doing? Do you ever say to one of your employees, “hey, I’ll get that for you”?

Because we get so wrapped up and involved in what we are doing it is too often too easy to write off the day to day activities as just not that important. We don’t give them our full attention. By being self absorbed with your own importance and not giving the necessary attention to your Team, you create a tiny crack in your professionalism armor. A tiny crack can soon lead to a full break if you don’t pay attention to it!

The Buddhist religion contains an important concept called “mindfulness”. This very simply means giving every task your full attention, right here right now. The Buddhist believe that this leads to a calm and peaceful existence.

This week I want you to approach every task as if your life depended on it because as a Leader it does. Your Team is looking to you, watching you. They want to follow you but you must give them something worthwhile to follow.  Review and renew your commitment to Leadership and ensure that everything you do reflects that commitment.

Leadership is NOT just a trait, it is NOT something you turn on and off and it is NOT something you pull out of your pocket. Leadership is a day in and day out lifestyle and practice!

Leadership – Today – Everyday!